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How to Fix “Target Device Has Insufficient Resources” Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Sometimes, when you try to connect or use a device on Windows 11, you might see an error saying, “Target device has insufficient resources.” This message means your computer cannot allocate enough hardware resources for the device to function properly.

This issue can prevent your device from working correctly, but it is usually fixable with a few simple adjustments in Windows settings.

In this article, we will walk you through easy, step-by-step solutions to resolve this error so your device can work without any problems.

Follow each step carefully, and you will be able to fix the insufficient resources issue on your Windows 11 PC.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into troubleshooting, make sure you do the following:

  • Restart your computer to clear temporary glitches.
  • Ensure your Windows 11 is up to date via Settings > Windows Update.
  • Disconnect and reconnect the device to see if the error persists.
  • Check that the device is compatible with Windows 11.

These quick checks can sometimes resolve minor issues without further steps.

Step 1: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a troubleshooter that automatically detects and fixes hardware problems. Running it is often the easiest first step.

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
  3. Find Hardware and Devices and click Run.
  4. Wait for the troubleshooter to scan and apply fixes.
  5. Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.

This step helps Windows automatically free up resources or fix device conflicts.

Step 2: Update the Device Driver

Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause resource allocation problems. Updating the driver may fix the error.

  1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
  2. Locate the device showing the error under the relevant category (e.g., USB controllers, Sound, Video).
  3. Right-click the device and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for drivers and allow Windows to find the latest driver.
  5. Restart your computer and test the device again.

Keeping drivers updated ensures the device communicates properly with your system hardware.

Step 3: Check for Resource Conflicts in Device Manager

If two devices try to use the same hardware resource (like IRQ or DMA), conflicts can occur. You can check and adjust this in Device Manager.

  1. Open Device Manager again.
  2. Right-click the problematic device and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Resources tab.
  4. Look for any conflicts listed at the bottom, such as IRQ or memory address conflicts.
  5. If conflicts exist, try the following:
    • Click Change Settings (if available) and manually assign resources.
    • Disable or uninstall conflicting devices if possible.
  6. Restart your PC to apply changes.

This step helps prevent two devices from fighting over the same hardware resources.

Step 4: Disable Power Saving Options for USB Devices (If Applicable)

Power management settings might cause the device to lose resources. Disabling them can help.

  1. Open Device Manager.
  2. Expand Universal Serial Bus controllers.
  3. Right-click each USB Root Hub and select Properties.
  4. Go to the Power Management tab.
  5. Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.
  6. Click OK and restart your computer.

This prevents Windows from disabling USB devices to save power, which may block resource allocation.

Step 5: Free Up System Resources by Disabling Unused Devices

If your system is running low on resources, disabling unnecessary devices can help.

  1. In Device Manager, look for devices you do not use (e.g., old network adapters, Bluetooth if unused).
  2. Right-click the device and choose Disable device.
  3. Confirm the action and restart your PC.

Disabling unused devices frees up hardware resources for the device you want to use.

Step 6: Update BIOS or UEFI Firmware

Sometimes, outdated BIOS or UEFI firmware can cause resource allocation issues. Updating it can improve hardware compatibility.

  • Visit your PC manufacturer’s website to find BIOS/UEFI updates for your model.
  • Carefully follow the instructions to download and install the update.
  • Make sure your laptop or PC is plugged into power during this process.

Note: Updating BIOS is an advanced step and should be done cautiously as incorrect updates can harm your system.

Alternative Method: Use System Restore to Undo Recent Changes

If the error started appearing recently, you can try restoring your system to a previous point when everything worked fine.

  1. Press Windows + S, type Create a restore point, and open it.
  2. Click System Restore.
  3. Follow the wizard to select a restore point from before the error appeared.
  4. Complete the process and restart your PC.

This method reverses recent changes that may have caused resource conflicts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the “Target device has insufficient resources” error?

This error usually happens because your system cannot allocate enough hardware resources like IRQs, DMA channels, or memory addresses to the device. It can be due to device conflicts, outdated drivers, or limited system resources.

Can I ignore this error if my device still works?

It is not recommended to ignore this error because it may cause instability or limited device functionality.

Is updating Windows important for fixing this error?

Yes, updating Windows ensures you have the latest drivers and fixes that can resolve resource allocation problems.

Can I fix this error without technical knowledge?

Many of the basic steps are simple and guided, but some advanced steps like BIOS updates should be done carefully or with expert help.

Will uninstalling and reinstalling the device help?

Sometimes uninstalling the device in Device Manager and then scanning for hardware changes can reset resource allocation and fix the error.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the “Target device has insufficient resources” error, you can try these final options:

  • Contact Device Manufacturer Support: They may have device-specific fixes or updated drivers.
  • Visit Microsoft Support: Use the official Microsoft Support website for advanced help.
  • Consider Professional Help: If the problem is hardware related, a technician can diagnose issues more deeply.
  • Reset Windows: As a last resort, resetting Windows 11 can restore system resources and settings to default.

Conclusion

The “Target device has insufficient resources” error on Windows 11 can be frustrating but is usually fixable. Start with simple steps like running the troubleshooter and updating drivers. Then check for resource conflicts and adjust power settings if needed. More advanced fixes like BIOS updates or system restore may be necessary in some cases.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can free up system resources and get your device working smoothly again. Remember to keep your system updated and manage devices properly to avoid future conflicts.

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